Corn’s Genetic Diversity on Display in New Genome Study
Published:11 Aug.2021 Source:Iowa State University
The newly assembled genomes of 26 different genetic lines of corn illustrate the crop's rich genetic diversity and could pave the way for a better understanding of what genetic mechanisms account for crop traits prized by farmers.
The mapping of the 26 genomes is detailed in an article published in the journal Science, and Matthew Hufford, first author of the study and an associate professor of ecology, evolution and organismal biology at Iowa State University, said the genomes will help scientists piece together the puzzle of corn genetics. Using these new genomes as references, plant scientists can better select for genes likely to lead to better crop yields or stress tolerance.